Genetically modified cowpea clears its first hurdle in Ghana, but there’s a long way to go

Genetically modified (GM) cowpea has cleared the first of the three regulatory hurdles in the way of commercialisation in Ghana. If it is commercialised, it will be the first GM crop grown in the country – a major milestone. Biotechnology proponents have been working for decades to integrate GM crops into Ghana’s development agenda. The approval of GM cowpea by the National Biosafety Authority comes amid debate, both inside and outside the country, on the efficacy of GM crops in strengthening food security throughout Africa. Cowpea – black-eyed pea in some parts of the world – is a major source of protein in Ghana and the rest of the sub-continent. It is integral to Ghana’s food security. It is a staple, especially in the northern part of Ghana, where it is second only to groundnut in terms of area cultivated. Ghana is the fifth largest producer of cowpea in Africa. While cowpea production is essential for Ghana, farmers face many challenges, including an array of pests. The GM ...